The highly anticipated “Emerging Technology Forum for the Telecommunications Industry” is set to take place in Nigeria, with a mission to establish a National Network Readiness Index (NRI). This initiative seeks to delve into the driving forces behind emerging technologies while critically examining the sustainability and challenges faced by the NRI’s four key pillars: Technology, People, Governance, and Impact.
The NRI, a widely recognized tool for monitoring access and assessing the impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), has proven invaluable for identifying gaps, stimulating action, shaping policy dialogue, and monitoring ICT readiness over time. Notably, Nigeria’s tech industry has been a focal point of the nation’s growth, evident in recent investments in infrastructure and digital services. According to statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics, the ICT sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s total GDP surged from 14.07% in the first quarter of 2020 to an impressive 17.47% in Q1 2023.
The Federal Government’s steadfast commitment to the Tech Industry, particularly its focus on nurturing the advancement and growth of emerging and new technologies, is commendable. This aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), notably articulated in its strategic pillar: Promotion of the DIGITAL ECONOMY. This vision extends to the New Media and Information Security Department, one of its critical mandates. Enhancing the productivity ecosystem is expected to lead to a substantial enhancement of the nation’s innovative capabilities in the years ahead.
Nigeria has witnessed remarkable developments in its ICT infrastructure, marked by skyrocketing mobile penetration rates and expansive internet connectivity. The Commission’s dedication to enhancing network infrastructure, combined with contributions from the private sector, has profoundly transformed the nation’s connectivity landscape. Importantly, the NRI encompasses not only the latest technologies or high-speed internet access but also includes elements such as affordability, digital skills, and the availability and adoption of digital services across various sectors of the economy.
The Potulans Institute’s reports on Nigeria’s performance in the NRI index from 2020 to 2022 reveal a mix of improvements and persistent challenges. Therefore, applying the Network Readiness Index within the Telecommunications Industry is of paramount importance in Nigeria’s current digital ecosystem. Leveraging the insights it offers enables the nation to capitalize on its strengths, address challenges, and steer towards a brighter digital future.
While recognizing the pivotal role of the NRI in channeling the strengths and opportunities of the tech ecosystem, it is equally imperative that metrics are localized to reflect Nigeria’s current realities. As the nation moves forward, embracing the insights provided by the NRI will guide policies, investments, and collaborations. This, in turn, will empower Nigeria to harness the potential of emerging technologies, invest in human capital, foster innovation, bridge the digital divide, and create a prosperous and inclusive digital future.
We extend our best wishes for a successful and enlightening discourse at the Emerging Technology Forum and anticipate a positive outcome that will shape Nigeria’s digital destiny.
TONY NWOSU
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